Idaho community rallies to support family of child killed in highway fire

ASHTON, Idaho (KIFI) — The greater eastern Idaho community is rallying around a grieving family following a devastating truck fire near Ashton that claimed the life of an eight-year-old girl.

The North Fremont Fire District is leading a fundraiser to support the family of Kynzlee Rae Luthy.

The fire happened on Friday, October 9th, when a Chevrolet pickup truck towing a livestock trailer overheated and caught fire on Highway 20, according to Idaho State Police. Two adults were taken to local hospitals with injuries, but Kynzlee didn't make it.

RELATED: Vehicle fire leaves one dead in Fremont County

Community Shows Overwhelming Support

In response to the tragedy, North Fremont firefighters launched a "fill-the-boot" fundraiser to help the family cover medical bills and unexpected funeral expenses.

Despite rainy weather on Sunday, firefighters were out collecting donations, and the local community responded with an overwhelming wave of generosity.

"We are truly amazed by the support and generosity we have seen," the department shared in a Facebook post. "Every donation helps lift some of the financial burden off this family’s shoulders as they navigate an incredibly difficult time. Thank you all for continuing to show up and support this family."

Due to the number of both in-person and Venmo contributions, the Fire District has extended the fundraising campaign through Friday, October 16.

As community support grows, firefighters are urging donors to stay vigilant. The Fire District warned that a scammer has created a fake account using the district’s profile picture and a nearly identical account name to trick charitable Idahoans out of their donations.

To contribute to the verified Venmo account or find more information on how to support the Luthy family, click HERE.